Trivandrum: The Kerala Traffic Police said many drivers think that honking the horn is easier than hitting the brakes.
If the horn is not extended, they feel like something is missing. People waiting for traffic signals, railway gates and vehicles waiting at traffic blocks can proceed only after passing them. We also see drivers honking unnecessarily despite being assured.
Horns are supposed to be used to warn in emergency situations but on the contrary, some people honk continuously to express anger, frustration and impatience. The constant honking of the horn can cause confusion among elderly drivers about what to do. It increases the risk of accidents. Constant honking is a major source of noise pollution. It is more than a nuisance; it is also a health hazard for unborn babies to adults, especially air horns and those that do not comply with noise limits. A side effect of constant exposure to excessive noise is gradual loss of hearing. Prolonged exposure to excessive honking in the ears can also affect the ability to make quick decisions. This may also cause an accident.
Honk the horn only when there is a danger to other road users or ourselves.
Section 194F of the Motor Vehicles Act makes it an offense to sound the horn as follows: Unnecessary / continuous / excessive honking; Sounding the horn in the places where the sign board No Horn is placed.
A fine of Rs.1000 will be charged from those doing such acts. Rs.2000 if the offense is repeated.
